Embassy News

T/C to benefit enormously from accession of a united island 2003-02-02 22:10:32

by Kyriakos Tsioupras --
London, Feb 1 (CNA) -- Cyprus Finance Minister Takis Klerides said a
possible solution of the Cyprus problem and a reunification of the island will
create opportunities for acceleration of economic growth in Cyprus.

Speaking at a gathering of Cypriot students at the London School of
Economics and Political Science on "The Cyprus Economy After the
Copenhagen Summit'', Klerides said the Government of Cyprus has officially
committed itself to allocate the peace dividend of an eventual solution of the
Cyprus problem, that is the savings accruing from the eventual elimination of
defence spending, towards supporting the developmental effort after a
solution of the Cyprus problem.

Klerides said the forthcoming accession to the EU is expected to strengthen
the political security on the island, thus enhancing the business climate, and
stressed that in the event of a solution of the Cyprus problem, Turkish
Cypriots will be also able to benefit from the enhanced employment
opportunities.

''Clearly the current economic situation in the occupied part of Cyprus is not
satisfactory. A solution of the Cyprus problem coupled with an accession of
the reunified island in the EU would enormously benefit the Turkish Cypriots
with substantial assistance and the promotion of the much-needed economic
reforms, thus helping them to improve their living standard'', he added.|

He also noted that the Government is working hard and constructively and
committed towards finding a viable and lasting solution of the Cyprus problem.
We are encouraged by the clear message of goodwill and willingness of the
Turkish Cypriots and the T/C young generation in particular, to support a
solution of the Cyprus problem, based on the Anan plan, he added.

Klerides also assured that the Government of the Republic of Cyprus is
determined to continue and intensify its efforts for the adoption and effective
implementation of the acquis communautaire.

Cyprus, which has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and
occupied 37% of its territory, has been invited by the EU Copenhagen
Council, along with other nine candidates, to join the EU.